A NOVENA TO ST. JOSEPH

This novena to St. Joseph requests divine assistance from someone
close to our Lord, quite close indeed: His foster-father! Although he
was from royal ancestry, a descendant of King David, St. Joseph has
inspired the faithful for generations as a model of humility and service
as a carpenter caring for his Holy Family. St. Bernard called him “the
faithful and prudent servant whom the Lord appointed master over His
household—His foster-father [and] the comfort and support of His
Mother.”

Glorious St. Joseph, foster-father and protector of Jesus
Christ! To you do I raise my heart and hands to implore your powerful
intercession. Please obtain for me from the kind Heart of Jesus the help
and graces necessary for my spiritual and temporal welfare. I ask
particularly for the grace of a happy death, and the special favor I now
implore (name it).

Guardian of the Word Incarnate, I feel animated with
confidence that your prayers in my behalf will be graciously heard
before the throne of God.

V. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ, and for the glory of His name,
R. Hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

St. Thomas Aquinas, the preeminent 13th century theologian, and
St. Teresa of Avila, the celebrated 16th century Carmelite nun, both
praised St. Joseph’s ability to assist us in all our needs before God.
Is it any wonder then that he is a patron saint of the Church, workers,
families, home buyers and sellers, and, as we read in this novena, the
grace of a happy death? Don’t be afraid to ask for his aid!